Official End of Summer Vacations

Labor Day has traditionally been regarded as the last long weekend to squeeze in any last-minute summer escapes. Yet, many are closely monitoring the Weather Channel to see if Hurricane Gustav and Tropical Storm Hanna will effect travel plans and spike gas prices to an all time high again…just in time for Labor Day celebrations. Despite the threatening storms, people still treasure their last summertime flings!

“We all look forward to that last trip to the beach or to a final summer visit to see friends or relatives,” Roger Dow, Travel Industry Association’s (TIA) president and CEO says. “But what most of us don’t know is that the benefits of our summer travel will stay with us long after we’ve returned home.”

Dow cited decades of research on how individuals and families benefit from traveling in the areas of health, education, career success, relationship-building and creativity.

“The evidence is overwhelming that when you take a trip, the benefits are everywhere,” Dow said. “Despite the fact that Americans get less vacation time than in any country in the industrialized world, because of the personal benefits gained, we can’t afford not to travel.”

Among the findings of various studies* conducted during the past few decades:

-Travelers rate their overall health one full point higher (on a scale of 1 to 5) while on vacation. They also get three times more deep sleep after their vacation and sleep almost 20 minutes longer after their vacation.

-An annual vacation can cut a person’s risk of heart attack by 50 percent.

-Women who take more vacations are more satisfied with their marriages.

-More than half of employed Americans say they come back feeling reconnected with their family after vacation (53%).

-Three out of four executives believe that vacations are necessary for them to prevent burnout (78%) or that vacations improve their personal job performance (75%).

-Travelers experience a 25% increase in performance on vigilance tests after returning from vacation - travelers 45 or older show a 50% increase in performance.

-Two out of three executives believe that vacations improve their creativity (68%).

There are some who intend to not have Labor Day be the end of 2008 travels.

TripAdvisor® just released the results of its annual fall travel survey revealing that 82 percent of U.S. respondents plan to travel for leisure this autumn, up from 70 percent who said they took pleasure trips last fall. Twenty-six percent of U.S. respondents said they will travel more this autumn than last, while 49 percent intend to travel the same amount as one year ago. Nearly 60 percent percent of travelers said they plan to fly this autumn for their leisure travel, while close to 50 percent plan to drive.

According to the TripAdvisor survey results, 31 percent of U.S. respondents are planning to travel on Labor Day weekend, nearly equal to the 30 percent who said they traveled the same timeframe in 2007. Those who are traveling Labor Day weekend are doing so via automobile (67%) compared to just over a quarter (26%) of people who plan to fly.

In comparison, AAA projects a slight decrease of 0.9 percent in the number of Americans traveling during the Labor Day holiday weekend, representing the first decline in Labor Day travel since 2006. However, even with a slight predicted decrease nearly 34.38 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday weekend.

“More travelers concerned about the economy, gasoline prices and rising airfares are opting to travel by train, bus, motorcycle and cruise ship to their holiday weekend destinations,” said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. “This trend points to a desire on the part of the American public to seek alternatives to flying and driving to enjoy the traditional end of summer vacation.”

According to the AAA report, more than 83 percent of all holiday travelers expect to travel by automobile to their destinations over Labor Day, which represents a higher percentage than the TripAdvisor survey revealed.

The national average for self-serve regular gasoline is $3.69 per gallon as reported by AAA, but this is already changing by the minute with the approach of Hurricane Gustav and Tropical Storm Hanna in the Atlantic.

*Studies referenced through www.tia.org by clicking here.

Photo Credit: The Weather Channel

NOTE: Storm names and conditions were accurate at time of publishing on August 29, 2008.

Subscribe to this blog's RSS feed

Many Americans think international travel is out of the question because of the costs involved, however it’s very affordable to travel to both Canada and Mexico. Both of those countries have rich histories, local customs, and attractions worth exploring. It might not be as exciting as a trip to spain, but it’s certainly a lot more affordable.

If you’re looking to travel to one of these countries, you’ll definitely want to research where in the country you want to go before you get thre. There are a lot of great travel guides for these vacations online. For example, Crave Canada is a great Canada Travel Guide, especially if you want to visit Vancouver or Quebec.

Crave Canada is a valuable guide for any US citizen visiting Canada. You’ll find great information about what activities you can do in different parts of the country. The site also has some great hotel recommendations and travel guides for some of the most commonly visited places by American Tourists.

I’m planning a trip to Ontario in the near future, and got some great information about local restaurants and ways to entertain yourself in Toronto for literally nothing. They also have information about seeing the Toronto Maple Leafs and a great guide for walking tours of the city.

Check it out.

Travelers hoping to score a low airfare for travels this fall and winter need to be more resourceful than ever. Coupled with reduced seat capacity, less flight options and the impact fuel prices have had on the airlines, a “cheap” ticket can be hard to find. But, it is not impossible.

It is easy to become very confused with the different airline ticket Web sites available and can leave a consumer wondering if a good deal was truly found. Orbitz has launched a campaign this summer trying to alleviate any worries about varying ticket prices for the same flight. The site claims that if another ticket is purchased for the same flight for a lesser cost, the difference will be refunded to the original purchaser. This does provide an element of confidence.

Two comparison Web sites reviewed that provide comprehensive searches resulting in the lowest airfare available are Kayak.com and Sidestep.com. In fact, according to Kayak.com Spokesperson Kellie Pelletier, the two companies merged in December 2007. “Both Kayak.com and Sidestep.com remain their own Web site,” she says. “We’re going to focus all of our expansion efforts on the Kayak.com brand.”

One benefit of these two travel sites is that they pull their fare searches from similar sites including Priceline.com and Vayama.com and even low cost airlines such as JetBlue and Southwest. As the search results are displayed, Kayak.com shows the available flights with associated costs and which site to purchase it from for the different prices.

So for those looking for a one-stop comparison, price-research experience which travelers can have purchasing confidence in, visit either Kayak.com or Sidestep.com. However, once a ticket is selected, the actual purchase takes place through identified airline partner.

For those who have flexibility in their travel plans, another site that helps determine when is the best time to travel to a specific destination and for the lowest price, consider using Farecompare.com. However, this site results in every ticket partner site opening in separate windows, so the user experience is cluttered and requires patience and time.

There is also Farecast.com which predicts ticket prices seven days out, which can be helpful for last-minute travel plans. Yet, as with Farecompare.com, multiple windows are opened and the experience is not as streamlined as with Kayak.com or Sidestep.com.

Another tip to obtaining low airfare is to register with airlines for their email sale announcements. Spirit Airlines continually offers price promotions for as little as .1 cent (plus taxes and fees) or a dollar amount off. These deals are real. In fact, I have scored a non-stop roundtrip ticket from Atlantic City, New Jersey to Ft. Myers, Florida for as little as $65 and last summer the three of us escaped to Nassau, Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale for $220 (yes, for all three travelers).

Travel specialist Bill Thomas of Tropical Latitudes Travel advises to not wait when you find a ticket with an attractive price. “I have had clients discover a great deal only to wait even a few hours to find the seats and price no longer available. Particularly if you are traveling over the holidays or other known busy times, purchase ahead to avoid any last minute headaches or finding that there are no more available flights,” he says.

Some travelers make it a quest to visit certain travel destinations or activities such as all major league baseball parks in the country, every U.S. state, or all theme parks. But, how about the biggest of something? The biggest restaurant, the largest home, the tallest roller coaster are just a few of the biggest items ProfessionalTravelGuide.com has developed a list of a few favorite bigger things to put on a vacation “must see” list.

It turns out you can find the world’s largest beer, biggest burger or largest lobster most anywhere, often at the center of a small town in the middle of nowhere, according to Peter Nicas, CEO and editor-in-chief, ProfessionalTravelGuide.com. “It can make for nice stops on a long drive.”

Below is a sampling of ProfessionalTravelGuide.com’s biggest recommendations:

World’s Largest Beer - La Crosse, Wisconsin
Drink up! Drive past Heileman’s Brewery in La Crosse to see the world’s largest beer, part of the world’s largest six-pack. Could this be anywhere else but Wisconsin? While in the state, visit the world’s largest talking cow (Neillsville), world’s largest penny (Woodruff) and the largest “M” (Platteville).

Largest Lobster - New Brunswick, Canada
Citizens of Shediac, New Brunswick, celebrate their self-proclaimed status as “Lobster Capital of the World” with their 35-ft/11-m statue of a lobster. The largest lobster recorded was caught in Nova Scotia, weighing in at 44 lbs/20 kg-we’re still searching for the world’s largest stick of butter.

Biggest Burgers - Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub  - Clearfield, Pennsylvania
Hungry? Order ahead for a 100-lb/45-kg burger. Of course, there’s always the 6-lb/3-kg or 3-lb/1.3-kg version if you’re a wimp.

Largest Velvet Elvis - The Tattoo Factory - Chicago, Illinois
At the Tattoo Factory in Chicago, stands what is currently the largest velvet Elvis, at 12 ft/4 m by 12 ft/4 m. Elvis is pictured with a tear in his eye, possibly from the thought of having been immortalized on velvet.

Biggest High School - Manila, Philippines
Did you have a large graduating class? So do the nearly 25,000 students at Rizal High School in Manila, Philippines. I feel worst for the janitor.

World’s Largest Restaurant - Damascus, Syria
Sometimes finding a restaurant for a large family reunion can be tricky, but only Abraham’s family would have trouble fitting into Damascus Gate. A Chinese and Indian restaurant, it has a seat for more than 6,000 diners. When you’re not waiting for a table at Damascus Gate (ha!), be sure to see the many other attractions in what is one of the world’s oldest cities.

World’s Biggest Gorilla Run - London, England
Hundreds of people dressed in gorilla costumes running a 4-mi/7-km scenic route around London-we’re as serious as we can possibly be about this. Maybe after the race, you can head to the London Zoo to see some other primates that don’t act quite so odd.

Largest Home - Biltmore Estate - Asheville, North Carolina
Probably the biggest tourist attraction in Asheville isn’t its outdoor recreation, but what’s indoors-specifically, the world’s largest private home, open for tours and special events year-round. Ironically, our favorite part about the tour was the outdoor flower garden.

Tallest Roller Coaster - Jackson, New Jersey
Six Flags Great Adventure is the proud home of Kingda Ka, a steel roller-coaster, standing a frightening 456 ft/141 m tall. We’re just assuming the line to get on this ride is equally impressive.

World’s Biggest Casino - Foxwoods Resort Casino - Ledyard, Connecticut
It’s not in Las Vegas or Macau. The world’s largest casino is actually in Connecticut. Foxwoods casino boasts more than 7,000 slot machines, which is enough dinging to drive anyone insane. Odds are good that you’ll leave with the world’s largest hole in your wallet.

World’s Largest City - Tokyo, Japan
The world’s largest city (by population) is without a doubt Tokyo, Japan, coming in at more than 35 million people. It far and away beats out New York City, Sao Paulo and Seoul. The city is awash in skyscrapers and flashing lights, and you can never be found wanting for things to do. 

What biggest, tallest and largest items, places, destinations have you journeyed to experience?

Photo Credit: ProfessionalTravelGuide.com

Although this is primarily a US based website, our traffic logs have been showing a very high percentage of our readers are from the British Isles. Interestingly enough, the way to get cheap flights in the United States is a lot different than how you get cheap flights in other developed countries. Most of us use services like Orbitz and Travelocity to compare and contrast flight prices, but most of these services are exclusive to the United States.

Fortunately there are mirror travel websites for use by British flyers. They aren’t run by the same companies but they serve the same basic purpose and provide deep discounts comparatively to what you might end up paying to a travel agent or booking directly with the airline.

One of these sites is called Direct Flights. It compares different flights from BMI baby, EasyJet, Thomson Fly, Monarch Flights, FlyBe, and XL Flights and finds you the best deal to travel to and from your destination. Much like other travel websites, you can enter in the departure and return date, your destination, how many passengers will be on the flight, and it will use its data warehouse of information and find you the best flight deal.

Price comparison services such as Direct Flights, Priceline, and Travelocity are a great way to save money on your vacations and business flights. You can usually get prices discounted by 20% to 30% compared to what you would pay if you just went ahead and booked a flight with your airline of choice–talk about hot flight deals. You might have to make an extra stop or two or travel at odd times of the day, but saving a few hundred pounds is well worth it.

Florida has more cruise ports than any other U.S. state including Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Tampa and Port Canaveral. Yet, alternative ports are attractive to cruisers who are looking to save some money without sacrificing their vacation. From New York, Baltimore, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Mobile, Alabama, and more there are new cruise vacations waiting to be discovered. In fact, according to the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA), there are more than 30 ports in the U.S.

Writing this post, I am aboard a Carnival cruise ship which sailed from Mobile, Alabama. This is our first cruise out of this southern state and has been a pleasant experience. We selected this particular cruise because a group of more than 20 of our colleagues (most of whom live in Alabama) decided to take a long weekend together. In addition, it has been a new adventure to try something different. Also, you could not beat the price…for three of us, an ocean-view cabin for a 4-night cruise was under $900.

Despite the 9-hour drive from Florida, the cruise port is easily accessible off of I-10; however, be sure to pay attention to where the cruise ship is located as there are no signs for the actual port, but it’s very visible. The parking garage is attached to the port entry so it is an easy drop off for luggage and then parking the vehicle and entering the secure area. Going through the embarkation process was painless and these Alabama Carnival workers welcomed all of the travelers with pure southern hospitality.

Our only port of call on this cruise itinerary was Cozumel, Mexico, which has some of the most gorgeous turquoise waters we’ve seen (other than Tahiti). We spent the day in a family-friendly beach club titled Nachi Cocom, which provided beach and pool access, lunch and unlimited beverages for $49.00 (USD) per adult…a great deal. This Cozumel beach is soft white sand with picturesque views.

Now, we look forward to another day at sea and smooth sailing only to arrive during the possible simultaneous arrival of Tropical Storm Fay. We are fortunate that this storm did not interrupt our cruise and we hope our drive back to sunny Florida is as easy as our cruise has been this voyage. When is Fay going away?

Nationally, gas prices are averaging just under $3.80 a gallon and just two weeks ago, those filling up at the pump were paying more than $4.00. This unpredictable commodity has caused travelers to change their travel plans this summer and have resulted in travel suppliers and hotels offering incentives to encourage visitors.

A recent AAA survey reports that 95 percent of AAA auto travel managers say high gas prices will cause travelers to alter their vacation plans this summer. Travelers taking trips closer to home, taking fewer trips, and reducing the number of vacation days traveled are ways reported in the survey that Americans will adjust their travel plans this summer.

“As gas prices skyrocket across the nation, travelers everywhere are left feeling the pinch for summer vacations,” states Greg Miller, president of PMHS.  “‘Tanks for Staying’ was inspired by the knowledge that the added costs for a summer vacation are estimated to have increased $50 for the average family using their car to arrive to their destination.  With such high costs at the pump along with rising food prices, we believe our guests deserve immediate help to salvage the family summer vacation.”

To ensure travelers do not miss out on vacation opportunities, numerous travel partners have created incentives stemming from high gas prices. NOTE: These are just a few available incentives…be sure to ask your travel partner to inquire what specials might be available.

Gas Prices Fueling Travel:

Bed & Breakfasts Offer One Tank Trips: Don’t let the price of gas tank your getaway plans. Find great savings for your next vacation at BnBFinder.com.  Bed and breakfast inns are offering special discounts and packages that won’t leave you with an empty wallet or an empty gas tank.  Receive a gas credit for your fill up or choose from the available One Tank Trips from major cities. The exact amount of the refunds and gas cards varies by region and inn, but you can see a complete list of participating inns on our gas savings specials page. Currently more than 140 inns are participating in the program. 

Red Roof Inn Beach Locations: Travelers heading to the beach get money back for gas. Spend three consecutive nights at select Red Roof beach locations and receive a gas credit for $25. Spend four consecutive nights and it’s doubled to $50! Please refer to VP+® Discount Code 542192 to receive your gas credit. Rooms must be booked online at redroof.com or 800.RED.ROOF (800.733.7663). Red Roof Inn beach locations offering this gas incentive are located in Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia. For complete locations, visit: http://www.redroof.com/promotions/gascredit.asp

Kimpton’s 70 Park Avenue Hotel - New York City, New York: With $4-a-gallon prices threatening to put the brakes on many vacation plans, 70 park avenue hotel’s Road Warrior Package offers to offset the record prices of gas by including a $20 gas card, complimentary parking, special accommodation rates starting at $289/night, and more amenities. Package available until 9/2/08, subject to change. Additionally, Kimpton hotels across the country offer hybrid car incentives. Guests arriving at a Kimpton hotel in a hybrid car receive parking and hotel discounts, and promotions vary depending on the property.

The Millennium UN Plaza New York: Guests who drive to the Millennium UN Plaza hotel in a car will receive $50 off the price of their hotel stay, while those driving SUVs will receive a $75 credit. With the Drive In and Save package, the money guests’ spend on gas can now go directly right back into their wallets. Rates at the Millennium UN Plaza Hotel start at $249 per night.  The Drive In and Save package is valid through September 7, 2008. Blackout dates apply. For more information or to book a stay at the Millennium UN Plaza, please call 1 (877) 866-7529 or visit www.millenniumhotels.com and use the promo code “SAVE”.

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa - Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico: Situated in the hills above the lush Rio Grande Valley in New Mexico, this pueblo-style resort is offering a “Gas Promotion” that includes a $25 Gift Card for two-night stays and a $50 Gift Card for three-night stays; all the more reason for guests to enjoy championship golf, a world-class spa, horseback-riding, and more.  Summer rates start at $235 per night.  Valid now through September 30. Call (800) 554-9288 and reference offer code GASCR. www.tamaya.hyatt.com

Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa & Marina - Cambridge, Maryland: An extraordinary Eastern Shore experience awaits guests who book the “Chesapeake Bay Experience” package, which includes overnight accommodations, a $25 gas card, s’mores kit, a kite for the beach, pass to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, and 15% off at the resort’s Orvis clothing store. Guests driving a hybrid vehicle will also receive an additional $50 gas card. Summer rates starts at $239 per night. Valid now through December 31, 2008. Call (800) 633-7313 and reference offer code CBEXP8. www.chesapeakebay.hyatt.com

Hyatt Regency McCormick Place - Chicago, Illinois: Following a recent multi-million dollar renovation, this 800-room Chicago hotel is now offering a “Gas Saver” package, which includes a $25 gas gift certificate upon checkout, complimentary self parking for one car each day, and complimentary one-way shuttle service to the Magnificent Mile, museums and other attractions. Rates start at $199 plus tax. Valid now through September 6, 2008. Call (800) 233-1234.  www.mccormickplace.hyatt.com 

Hyatt Regency Dallas - Dallas, Texas: Located in the heart of downtown Dallas’ historic district, the AAA Four-Diamond Hyatt Regency Dallas has created a “Gas ‘n Go” offer, starting at $99 and including overnight accommodations and a $25 gas card.  As an added bonus, guests who drive a hybrid vehicle will also receive free parking.  Valid now through September 1, 2008.  Call (800) 233-1234.   www.dallasregency.hyatt.com

The Curtis Hotel - Denver, Colorado: A member of Sterling Hotels^TM, The Curtis hates rising gas prices, so park your gas guzzler and receive $50 to fill up your tank. The package includes a $50 gas card and rates start at $155 weekday, $195 weekend. A two-night minimum stay is required during the week. For reservations and additional information please visit www.thecurtis.com or call (800) 525-6651. 

Eldorado Hotel & Spa - Santa Fe, New Mexico: El Dorado Hotel & Spa, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, is coming to the aid of travelers with the “Santa Fe Gas Rebate”. Guests, whether they travel by train, plane or car, will receive a $50 food and beverage credit when they present a dated gas receipt or rental car contract that corresponds with the date of check-in. The Santa Fe Gas Rebate requires a two-night stay and is valid now through September 6, 2008. Rates start at $219 per night. For reservations or information please visit www.eldordadohotel.com or call (800) 955-4455 and mention Santa Fe Gas Rebate when booking. 

French Lick Resort - French Lick, Indiana; West Baden Springs Hotel - West Baden Springs/French Lick, Indiana: The French Lick Resort, a member of Historic Hotels of America, and West Baden Springs Hotel, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, are both offering a valuable Gas Rebate Package this summer. The more nights you stay, the bigger rebate you earn! A two-night minimum is required, which earns a $40 rebate. Stay up to five nights and earn as much as $100. The offer is good thru December 31. For more information or to make a reservation please visit www.frenchlick.com or call (888)936-9360 and mention code GS0808.

Boston Harbor Hotel - Boston, Massachusetts: Don’t let the rising costs of fuel ruin your summer vacation. Get “Mobil” and drive your cares away for a summer of fantastic fun. Book a two night stay at the Boston Harbor Hotel, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, and receive a $50 Mobil gas card, complimentary valet parking and luxurious overnight accommodations. Let the kid’s frolic by the pool as you relax and recharge your batteries with a scintillating spa treatment or take in one of our Summer Series Movies while we help refuel your gas tank. Rates start at $455. Available June 19, 2008 - September 7, 2008 Thursdays - Sundays. Visit www.bhh.com to book online or call 617-439-7000.

Hilton Indian Lakes Resort - Bloomingdale, Indiana: The Hilton Indian Lakes Resort knows that travelers are hurting when they make it to the gas pump, which is they have put together a Gas Card Promo to help ease the pain.  The Gas Card Package includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for two in Master’s Clubhouse and one $25 gas card per stay.  This package is only available on Fridays and Saturdays up until August 31, 2008. The package starts at $125/night. Travelers can go to www.IndianLakesResort.com for more information. 

Lowes Coronado Bay Resort - San Diego, California: With gas prices rising at record rates and the expectation that increases will continue throughout the summer, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers weary travelers a little relief from the pump with the debut of its “Money for Miles” package, which includes deluxe accommodations at the premier San Diego resort, complimentary self-parking and a list of the least expensive gas stations in the area. In addition, guests can submit their gas receipts to the front desk at the end of their stay for a credit of up to $50 off their hotel bill. The Money for Miles package ranges from $289 to $429 per night, based on availability. Gas receipts must be dated one day prior to the guests’ arrival or sometime during their stay. Valid until September 1, 2008. Reservations may be made by calling 619-424-4000 or 800-81-LOEWS. Visit www.loewshotels.com.

I-95 Packages with Marriott, Hilton, Starwood & Choice Hotels: PM Hospitality Strategies (PMHS), a leading hotel management company with Marriott, Hilton, Starwood and Choice hotels operating along I-95 in the Mid-Atlantic, has a solution to soaring costs stemming from unexpectedly high gas prices.  PMHS has developed a creative summer promotion entitled, “Tanks for Staying” designed to give traveling families some relief from gasoline prices with a $50 gas card as well as a variety of additional incentives at PMHS properties throughout Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and New Jersey.  The promotion is available for stays through September 30, 2008 through www.pmhs.com or by calling participating hotels directly.

“We all know there is a tremendous pinch at the pump right now with soaring gas prices throughout the nation,” said Kathleen Cochran, general manager of Loews Coronado Bay Resort. “We’re hoping to relieve a little of that pain and keep summer travelers on the road with this extra incentive.”

What other travel incentives are you seeing? Stay tuned for destinations reachable only via air or sea which are offering free air incentives to help combat the tight economy travelers are feeling.

NOTE: These offers were valid at time of publishing on August 19, 2008. Prices and availability are not guaranteed by Travel-Advocate magazine.

Today’s cruising market can offer a variety of options often overwhelming to a first time passenger, while constantly offering something new for the well-seasoned traveler. A few cruising benefits include flexibility, value, options, variety, and a sampling of destinations.

“No other type of vacation offers the variety of experiences - worldwide destinations, diverse itineraries, varying cruise lengths, types of ships, different onboard experiences, and shore side activities - that the CLIA fleet provides,” said Terry Dale, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). “The aim is to enable every vacationer to choose the cruise that is exactly right for individual tastes, interests and budget.”

CLIA’s 2008 Cruise Market Profile Study reveals that in 2007, 9.57 million Americans took a cruise vacation representing 76 percent of the total 12.56 million guests carried on CLIA member cruise lines. Based on this year’s study, 33.7 million Americans stated intent to cruise within the next three years.

Ready to set sail? To keep things simple and to help identify cruise vacations that match a traveler’s desires and needs, consider the following five factors:

1. Price: The purchase of any item often involves comparing price and cruising is certainly no exception. Cruise price ranges can run from just a few hundred dollars for those on a tight budget to the tens of thousands for those seeking extravagant flair. It’s important to note some of the added expenses when researching a cruise, such as port charges, fuel supplements, gratuities and additional costs for onboard amenities. What may appear to be a budget cruise initially may very well be more expensive when add-ons are factored into the final cost.
2. Itinerary: Cruise line itinerary offerings are global in scale and can provide all the necessary elements for a cultural and geographic adventure. Sailings to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, South Pacific and Mexican Riviera offer sun, sand and sea in a variety of island or coastal ports. Alaskan and exotic destinations are being offered such as South America and Australia/New Zealand for passengers whom may desire off the beaten path travel or for those who have sailed the traditional Eastern and Western Caribbean routes previously. European cruises offer a unique view of many areas and with today’s dollar value, cruising provides value. Today’s cruise itineraries can be as diverse as the passengers traveling the high seas.
3. Duration: Time is an element that often becomes the limiting factor of a vacation. Without sacrificing product quality, cruising offers vacations of varying lengths. Vacationers looking for a long weekend getaway can do so with cruises to the Bahamas from the ports of Florida in three- and four-night sailings. In need of a little longer escape, sailings of 7-14 days can keep pace with the traditional break away from the stress of everyday life.  Around the world sailings lasting in excess of 100+ days are available for those seeking to fill time with world travel. Time of travel will dictate the itineraries available.
4. Travel Dates: Be sure to match desired destination with ideal travel time frame. Alaska and Mediterranean cruises generally tend to sail from April through November, while Caribbean cruises are available year-round. Voyages to the picturesque northeastern United States and Canada are offered in the cooler months of September-November. Transatlantic sailings between the U.S. and Europe can be found in the early months of spring and late months of fall as ships reposition to their prescribed ports to begin or end seasons abroad. Panama Canal cruises that transit the entire length of the canal are in full swing from November thru April. 
5. Amenities: Today’s cruise lines offer a wide variety of onboard amenities. No longer is a cruise just transportation to and from a port, the ships themselves have become destinations. Services ranging from world-class spas to seminars at sea are enticing passengers to entertain cruising as a vacation.  Culinary demonstrations, fitness classes, wine tastings, theme lectures, acting lessons, ice skating, golf, scuba diving lessons, rock climbing, surfing,  are just a few ways that cruise lines have responded to clients’ requests and desires.

When considering a cruise vacation, take time to identify vacation goals and expectations with the entire traveling party to ensure the perfect ship and itinerary is selected. By taking some time to think about what a traveler wants from a cruise experience will result in a cruise that is custom to their needs and will help navigate through the numerous sailings offered.

PHOTO CREDIT: Tropical Latitudes Travel (http://www.tltravels.com)

Increases in fuel prices have translated into less services received when flying, new fees levied to travelers, a continued seat reduction in flight capacity, and even defunct airlines. However, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG), nearly 60 million airline seats will be eliminated in the 4^th quarter of 2008, compared to available seats in 2007…just in time for the busy holiday travel season.

While last-minute holiday shoppers can score some good deals, this is not the case for the 2008 holiday travel season. Those who procrastinate might just have the Grinch steal their Christmas travel dreams.

The latest figures from OAG’s consolidated database reveal a 7% drop both in the number of flights and in seat capacity for October, November and December 2008 compared with the same time last year.  The U.S. domestic market will account for about 20 million of that figure, or 33% of the global decline in capacity, in what could potentially be the most widespread crisis to hit the aviation industry in recent memory, according to an OAG press release.

Steve Casley, Chief Operating Officer of OAG, said, “The data speaks for itself. It took a good three years for the industry to recover from the downturn in 2001 when it had a 5% drop in capacity and a 7% drop in flights.  Steady annual growth since 2002 looks set to plummet in the fourth quarter this year with an unprecedented global decline of 7%.”

OAG reports it is not only passengers who are facing reduced service and choice.  Many airports will be severely affected by the announced cuts by airline operations, with 275 airports around the world losing scheduled air service altogether based on current filed schedules. Of these, 32 are in the U.S. while 116 are in the Asia Pacific region, OAG reports.

Traveling during the holidays is hectic enough as it is without this capacity reduction and service elimination to certain airports. Travelers hoping to travel over the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas), should consider booking their flights now with this newly released data.

OAG, which also maintains the world’s leading fleet database, has adjusted its 10-year forecast for the global scheduled aircraft fleet to shrink by more than 3,500 aircraft as a result of high jet fuel prices and to reflect the impact of these capacity cuts.

Now is not the time to procrastinate or to hope airline prices “might” drop! “If you know you are traveling during peak holiday time, then go ahead and purchase your ticket now,” says Bill Thomas, owner of Tropical Latitudes Travel. “The continued airline turmoil is not conducive to shop around and only to end up paying more for a ticket, but even more importantly, missing the flight opportunity all together.”

To ensure travelers’ holiday trips are protected, travel insurance has never played a more important role. Those traveling during the holidays can purchase travel insurance through comparison sites such as Squaremouth.com to ensure their Christmas is still merry!

Do not assume that purchasing travel insurance through the airline direct is a full-proof protection as if the airline declares bankruptcy; customers are not covered, according to Squaremouth.com’s CEO Chris Harvey.

Today people are taking advantage of lucky eights by traveling on this triple digit day of 08-08-08. Travel suppliers and hotels use this good fortune date to help market their properties and destinations allowing travelers some lucky deals (and many of these specials are available through August or into the fall). August 8^th coincides with the Olympic Games’ Opening Ceremonies in China and with the Chinese belief of eight being a lucky number. 

Reasons for actually taking a trip on August 8^th vary from an already planned itinerary, intentional travel on the 8^th, a celebration including birthdays and anniversaries, and even as an opportunity to celebrate newness in what was a failing marriage. 

“There is no question that August 8, 2008 is a special day,” says Joann Delgin, Chief Romance Officer for Unique Vacations, the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.  “In many traditions, the number eight symbolizes a new beginning and the promise of eternal love. The pattern 8 is infinite, forever.  There is no greater symbol of the lifelong promise of marriage and the romantic appeal of love that never ends.” 

In fact, Shawna Whitmore, Truth or Consequence, New Mexico and Richard Larrabee, Nantucket, Massachusetts, are becoming man and wife in a beach ceremony at 8pm tonight, 08-08-08 at Sandals Whitehouse European Village & Spa, Jamaica. 

Another couple, Vikki Capparelli and Michael Bonick who are 28 and 38 respectively, won an actual wedding today on 08-08-08 as the winners of a contest sponsored by Eight O’Clock Coffee, according to spokesperson Denise McVey. Nearly 1,000 people entered the contest where applicants had to write an essay about why getting married on 08-08-08, and winning the wedding from Eight O’Clock Coffee, was important to them. 

An excerpt from the winning entry: “We’re teachers who drink their 8, for our classes start at 8 and we can’t be L8, for our students are so gr8. That’s why 8-8-08 is the perfect d8, for teachers to cut a wedding c8ke during summer br8k.”

Hundreds of couples are traveling to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to say “I do,” according to Gatlinburg, Tennessee spokesperson Kristin Kelly. “In fact, according to Chinese culture, the more ‘eights’ a couple has in their lives, the more luck they will receive. So it’s no surprise that couples across the country have been hurrying to book 08-08-08 as their special day in Gatlinburg,” she explains.

Traveling to celebrate a marriage renewal, Alisa Bowman, who turns 38 today, and her husband leave today, 08-08-08, to St. Kitts for overdue second honeymoon. “My husband and I have recently reconciled some marital differences (www.projecthappilyeverafter.com). We’d tried to have two second honeymoons before becoming parents,” she explains. After having the child, “our marriage tanked during that time. We’ve spent a lot of effort working out our differences,” Bowman continues. “This year, on my birthday, we’re finally leaving for our second honeymoon.”

However, Tami Kamin-Meyer, Esq., Columbus, Ohio, has chosen to specifically not travel on 08-08-08. Having traveled on August 7^th and again on August 9^th, she says “I specifically did not want to fly on the 8th because I just felt like there was too much going on in the world with the Olympics just beginning. I also wanted to be with my family at home to watch the Opening Ceremonies.” 

Believing as the Chinese do in the number 8, Sharon E. Pomerantz, Fairfield, Connecticut, is heading to St. Lucia for vacation on this lucky date for a birthday. “It is a big birthday for me so we are celebrating it away and leaving on this date which is supposed to bring good fortune,” she says.

Combining a surprise with a birthday, one of Tropicana’s customers from Washignton, DC booked its special $888 package (details below) for his wife’s 08-08-08 birthday, according to Tropicana Spokesperson Diane Spiers.

Also celebrating a birthday, Donna Kenny, Northhampton, Massachusetts, is traveling with her husband to the Stirling House in Greenport, New York. While Andy Abramson, Del Mar, California, and his wife are celebrating their anniversary and both birthdays today in Chicago. August 8^th is actually Andy’s birthday and his wife’s is on August 19^th and their 2^nd anniversary was on August 5^th. The couple is calling their celebration a BirthVersaryDay.

Another anniversary couple who joined together on 08-08-98 is Dena Meeder and her husband who today celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary in Las Vegas. “We picked Vegas because it was where we went on our one-year anniversary,” Meeder says. “Now after two kids and too many years we are going to go back, but this time to visit Paris and to take in a Cirque du Soliel show. Vegas is one of those places you can have so many experiences just staying in your hotel or taking a stroll down the street.”

Following are just a few examples of special 08-08-08 packages with travel opportunities beyond this special day.

• Club Med is celebrating lucky number 8 and summer escapes by offering a seven-night all-inclusive vacation for $888 per adult. Children will also take advantage of Club Med’s 888 offers since infants ages two and three are invited to stay for $333 and children ages four to 15 years for $444. Club Med’s 888 special is available for booking now through Aug. 29, 2008 for travel between Aug. 23, 2008 and Feb. 13, 2009. To book this offer and to learn which resorts are included, call 800-CLUBMED or visit www.clubmed.us.
• Tropicana* in Atlantic City, New Jersey will observe lucky number 8 with packages and specials so that everyone can prosper. Many hotel, dining and entertainment specials are being offered. One example, for $808.00, guests will enjoy a room in one of Tropicana’s luxurious hotel towers, receive 8 chocolate covered strawberries and an 88-minute massage at bluemercury apothecary & resort spa. Guests will also receive an $88 gift card for dining and shopping in The Quarter, two four-course meals for a total of 8 courses, and breakfast in bed at 8 a.m. or later. Guests will also receive an 8Pass, which provides VIP access to all of our hottest night clubs.
• Sandals created the exclusive 8-8-08 Infinity Wedding package to commemorate this special date of eternity. Beginning with a Preston Bailey Signature WeddingMoons® ceremony at sunset, the 8-8-08 Infinity Wedding package features all-new fresh floral décor designed by wedding planner to the stars Preston Bailey, an eight course gourmet dinner, and a two-tiered wedding cake designed by cake maestro Sylvia Weinstock. Priced at $4,888, this experience also includes additional amenities including spa treatments, photography, music, keepsakes and more.
• In celebration of its pending grand opening, Hyatt at Olive 8 in Seattle, Washington is offering three enticing 08-08-08 packages sure to bring good luck. “Your Luck Day” August 8th Birthday Rate** promotion is available for travelers born on August  8^th to take advantage of  their lucky number and book a one-night stay at this new luxury hotel for free. Bookings must be made by August 31, 2008 and are good through August 8, 2009.
• Lovers Lock Plaza, Lovelock, Nevada, is a unique romantic getaway as this destination draws inspiration from the ancient Chinese tradition of placing locks upon The Great Wall of China and in the Yellow Mountains. A visit on 8-8-08 also pays tribute to the luckiness of the number eight in Chinese culture. Lovers Lock Plaza is adorned with more than 1,100 locks of all shapes and sizes, each telling the story of a love-bound couple.  
• Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado is offering an Olympic travel deal commencing 08-08-08. Its “Go for the Gold” package rates start at $119*** a night, and visitors who book two or more nights at any participating Aspen or Snowmass lodge will receive extra amenities including complimentary passes to the Aspen or Snowmass Recreation Centers, complimentary bicycle rental, spa discounts at Aspen Club & Spa, and more. Package is valid from August 8^th until October 15^th, 2008. For more information, call 1.888.667.5666 or visit www.aspenchamber.org or www.snowmassvillage.com.
• Mount Nevis Hotel in Nevis is offering a “Pay Full Rate and Then Just $8″**** promotion. Stay a minimum of eight nights at the Mount Nevis Hotel in a Superior Suite at the rate of $300 per night and get the 2nd night for just $8, 3rd night for $300, 4th night for $8 and so on…throughout the duration of the stay. Valid for travel between August 8^th and 28^th, 2008. Visit www.mountnevishotel.com for more information.  For reservations, call 800-756-3847, 9am-5pm, EST, Monday through Friday or the hotel direct at 1-869-469-9373.

* Room package does not include tax and is based on double occupancy and availability. Additional restrictions may apply. Tropicana reserves the right to modify this offer at any time. Valid Friday, August 8, 2008 only. Rate does not include tax, occupancy fee, or mandatory $1 per day phone charge.

** The package rate is available to the first 50 guests 18+ who book the “Your Lucky Day” package.  To receive the package rate, guests will need to show proof of an August 8 birthday upon check in.

*** Lodging rates are based on double occupancy, do not include taxes and gratuities, and are subject to availability.

****This offer is based on double occupancy and is subject to tax and service charge.  Meals are not included. 

Rates and promotions listed are valid at time of publishing on August 8, 2008 and are not guaranteed.

Photo Credits: Club Med; Sandals; Tropicana; Hyatt; Love Lock, Nevada; Aspen photo by Dan Bayer; Gatlinburg, Tennessee